Boone County named Indiana Chamber’s Community of the Year
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Eyes have been on Boone County for a number of potential and in-the-works developments. Now, the county adding another accomplishment to its resume.
The Indiana Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday named the county its 2023 NextEra Energy Resources Community of the Year, citing its fast growth and attractive business environment.
Cities in the county include Lebanon, Whitestown and Zionsville as well as smaller communities like Advance, Jamestown and Thorntown. Lebanon is home to a LEAP Lebanon Innovation District, which looks to bolster innovation through its “megasite, advanced manufacturing, mixed-use and corporate campus.”
“You cannot look at the game-changing transformation that is yet ongoing in the county and not be excited and inspired by what it means for the residents, businesses and the state,” Indiana Chamber President and CEO Kevin Brinegar said in a news release.
Major developments the county has bagged include new Eli Lilly and Co. plants in the LEAP district, an expansion of Ken’s Foods, Netherlands-based NewCold’s plans for a $150M expansion, GR Brands’ movement of its headquarters to Zionsville and Fukai Toyotetsu Indiana Corp.’s several investments and expansions.
“More and more businesses are recognizing the benefits of establishing a presence in our county attributed by our business-friendly climate, highway accessibility and a desirable community to live,” said Molly Whitehead, executive director of the Boone County Economic Development Corp. “It is with great pride we accept this recognition as we continue striving to be better in Boone County.”
According to the chamber news release, the county has added 2,000 new jobs and more people are moving to the area. It calls the county the second-fastest growing county in the state.
The county will receive the honor at the chamber’s 34th Annual Awards Dinner. The chamber last week announced Senator Todd Young (R-IN) as the 2023 Birch Bayh-Richard Lugar Government Leader of the Year.